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Depression Risk

Meaning

Depression Risk quantifies the statistical probability that an individual will develop a clinical depressive disorder over a defined period, based on a confluence of genetic, environmental, and physiological factors. In the context of hormonal health, this risk is significantly modulated by the integrity and stability of the neuroendocrine axes, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes. Fluctuations or chronic deficiencies in key hormones like cortisol, thyroid hormones, estrogen, or testosterone can directly influence neurotransmitter synthesis and limbic system function, thereby elevating susceptibility. Assessing this risk is a critical component of comprehensive hormonal wellness evaluations.